Brain-inspired computing with spin torque devices

Kaushik Roy, Mrigank Sharad, Deliang Fan, Karthik Yogendra

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this paper we discuss the potential of emerging spin-torque devices for computing applications. Recent proposals for spin-based computing schemes may be differentiated as 'all-spin' vs. hybrid, programmable vs. fixed, and, Boolean vs. non-Boolean. Allspin logic-styles may offer high area-density due to small form-factor of nano-magnetic devices. However, circuit and system-level design techniques need to be explored that leaverage the specific spin-device characterisitcs to achieve energy-efficiency, performance and reliability comparable to those of CMOS. The non-volatility of nano-magnets can be exploited in the design of energy and area-efficient programmable logic. In such logic-styles, spin-devices may play the dual-role of computing as well as memory-elements that provide field-programmability. Spin-based threshold logic design is presented as an example. Emerging spintronic phenomena may lead to ultra-low-voltage, current-mode, spin-torque switches that can offer attractive computing capabilities, beyond digital switches. Such devices may be suitable for non-Boolean data-processing applications which involve analog processing. Integration of such spin-torque devices with charge-based devices like CMOS and resistive memory can lead to highly energy-efficient information processing hardware for applicatons like pattern-matching, neuromorphic-computing, image-processing and data-conversion. Finally, we discuss the possibility of using coupled spin-torque nano oscillators for low-power non-Boolean computing.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings - Design, Automation and Test in Europe, DATE 2014
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
ISBN (Print)9783981537024
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014
Externally publishedYes
Event17th Design, Automation and Test in Europe, DATE 2014 - Dresden, Germany
Duration: Mar 24 2014Mar 28 2014

Publication series

NameProceedings -Design, Automation and Test in Europe, DATE
ISSN (Print)1530-1591

Other

Other17th Design, Automation and Test in Europe, DATE 2014
Country/TerritoryGermany
CityDresden
Period3/24/143/28/14

Keywords

  • analog
  • coupled spin torque nano oscillators
  • logic
  • low power
  • neural networks
  • non-Boolean
  • programmable logic array
  • spin
  • threshold logic

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Engineering

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